Being Tyler Kam

Tea with Santa

2010-12-11T23:00:00.006-10:00

Tyler got into the Christmas spirit at the Tea with Santa event at the Kahala Resort. He went with his mommy and Aunty Lisa-Anne.

When he first arrived, he played "Pin the Beard on Santa."

Great job, Tyler!

Then, with a "Ho ho ho," Santa arrived!

When it was time for Tyler to sit on Santa's lap, he had a lot of things to tell him!

I wonder what Tyler asked for. Could it possibly start with a "T" and ends with "rain"?

Tyler even made a Christmas tree puzzle with his own design!

Thank goodness, Aunty Lisa-Anne was there to help finish it!

We had a great time! Merry Christmas everyone!

The Tyler Cooking Show - Pumpkin Cheesecake

2010-11-29T19:36:00.005-10:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tyler's Cooking Show! For Thanksgiving, Tyler and his mom made a pumpkin cheesecake for a family get-together. Ty's mom found the Cheesecake Factory recipe online.

First, he had to make the graham cracker crust.

Crust:

1-1/2 cups graham crumbs
5 Tbsp. butter, melted
1 Tbsp. sugar

Oops!

Mix crust ingredients together, just till coated and crumbly. Press onto the bottom and 2/3 up the sides of an 8" springform pan. Bake for 5 min. at 350. Set aside.

Then it was time to make the filling.

Filling:

3- 8oz.pkgs. cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup canned pumpkin
3 eggs
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. allspice

Combine cheese, sugar and vanilla in large bowl, mix until smooth with an electric mixer. Add pumpkin eggs, and spices, beat till smooth and creamy.

Pour into the crust. Bake for 60-70 min. or till the top turns a bit darker. Remove from oven and allow to come to room temperature, then refrigerate. After it has thoroughly chilled, remove the pan sides and cut. Serve with whipped cream.

And here is the finished product!

Mmmm! Happy Thanksgiving!

Ty's Glow-rious 7th Birthday!

2010-10-30T11:31:00.005-10:00

Tyler celebrated his 7th birthday with friends and family at Glow Putt in Windward Mall.

He invited his friends for a round (or 3) of mini-golf.

Ty was lucky to have a Thomas the train cake...

And when it was time to blow out the candles, he invited everyone to help him.

Happy birthday Ty!
Thanks to everyone who came out to help him celebrate!

The Magician's Assistant

2010-10-19T14:05:00.004-10:00

Anyone who knows Tyler knows he's shy and doesn't like to be the center of attention. Wait, actually he's the opposite -- he's quite a ham (wonder where he gets it from, hmmmm?). So when there was a magician at Colby Kimoto's first birthday party, Ty jumped at the chance to be the magician's assistant!

Ty wasn't the only one to get in on the act. Uncle Ivan also got up on stage to participate in a dangerous-looking trick.

Don't worry, no one was hurt in the process and everyone had a fun time, helping Colby celebrate her first birthday!

FORE! Ty Tees It Up

2010-06-03T19:32:00.006-10:00

Ty took golf lessons at school towards the end of the year so to continue during the summer, he is taking lessons from Aunty Julie. They had their first lesson this afternoon at Pearl Country Club in Pearl City.

First lesson - how to place the tee.

Then it was actual putting lessons.

Ty lined up his ball...

And took a swing!

Aunty Julie helped him with his grip.

Then it was time to go to the driving range.

He learned the importance of keeping both feet on the ground.

Ty did a pretty good job swinging...

He swung very hard!

And he connected with the ball well!

He even broke two tees, which he was so proud of!

Thanks to Aunty Julie for the first golf lesson at a golf course!
Who knows, maybe he'll be a great golfer!
His goal: to be as good as his dad!

Tyler Beats Out the Competition

2010-03-15T23:30:00.011-10:00

Tyler's first ever Pine Wood Derby Car competition ends with success.

His car design concept.

Progress Being made

Getting Some Color. Of Course Tyler's Favorite Color "Yellow".

Tyler's Competition. Some Nice Looking Cars.

Final Results From 1st to 4th. Who is That in 1st?

Tyler Posing with the Hardware. He Said He Was So Happy. Putting A Smile on Your Son's Face is What it is All About.

Tyler and His Car Will Represent his Cub Scout Pack 808 at the Makahiki Pine Wood Derby Race Against the Winners From All the Other Cub Scout Packs. Good Job Tyler.

Choo-Choo!

2010-01-02T16:25:00.004-10:00

Tyler played train engineer on Kauai, when he got to ride the Kilohana Plantation train.

At first, he didn't want to sit up front because he was worried the whistle would be too loud,
but his mom convinced him to go.

The train ride is about 45 minutes long and goes approximately 5 mph.
Engineer Doug explained to Ty how to drive it.

The train stopped halfway through the ride to give passengers a chance to feed dozens of pigs.

Now Ty can say he got to drive a real train!

Tyler's 2009 Hokulani Christmas Program

2009-12-20T14:44:00.004-10:00

Tyler performed with his 1st grade class at Hokulani Elementary's 2009 Christmas Program. He was so excited that morning, singing and acting out his songs.

But when he hit the stage (first row, 5th from left in blue/white aloha shirt), he seemed more mellow than usual. Stage fright, maybe?

For the second song, the Alvin & the Chipmunks Christmas Song, he got a little more into it with the motions, especially the "hula hoop" part.

He still did really well and his mom is very proud of him!

Happy holidays!

The Tyler Cooking Show - Project Train Cake

2009-09-14T20:56:00.011-10:00

For Tyler's 6th birthday, his mom had a BRILLIANT idea to make him a cake. Not just any ol' cake, but one shaped as trains. She found the train mold at Williams Sonoma and thought, 'This should be easy!' Ty's mom sure is ambitious... maybe a little too much sometimes!

There were a lot of ingredients involved... from the cake mix...

To the candy decorations...

Let's start with the cake mix. Ty explains how to make it!

While the trains cooled...

It was time to set the "scene." Ty's mom got one of those oven drip trays as the base. She mixed green food coloring with frosting to make the "grass" and spread a thin coat on the tray.

Then, she used black licorice to make the "tracks."

She found little Japanese chocolate mushrooms and used them as "trees." Since they couldn't stand up on their own, she dyed mini marshmallows green and used them as "bushes" to keep the "trees" in place.

Now that the scene was set, it was time to decorate the trains. Ty started by using mini marshmallows as the "steam" coming from the engine.

We used gummy lifesavers for the wheels and strawberry sour belts as the bumpers and outlines of the train. Jelly beans, Smarties and lemon candies were used to resemble everything else, from headlights to cargo.

Here's the final product!

And in the end, it was a big hit at his birthday party!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TYLER!

Ty can SWIM!!!

2009-08-02T20:07:00.004-10:00

For the first time, Tyler can swim!

He was playing in the pool with Lindsy and Logan this afternoon.

Somehow Grandma Judy convinced him to put his head in the water.

He picked it up quickly and didn't want to stop!

It's taken almost six years for Tyler to reach this point. He started out taking swimming lessons at 6 months old, just to get him familiar with the water. Then he tried swimming lessons at Ala Moana Beach last year, but he'd rather play in the sand. And everytime we asked him if he wanted to swim, he said he didn't want to learn.

Now we have a little swimmer!
We are so proud of you, Ty!

End of Summer Macarena

2009-07-27T19:53:00.003-10:00

Tyler spent the summer at Moiliili Community Center's summer fun. The program celebrated the end of summer with a family fun night on Friday, July 24th.

Tyler's group went first and performed the Macarena dance! (Tyler is in back row wearing a dark green shirt and blue shorts)

He sure knows how to boogie! Now it's time to rest before school starts on August 3rd!

Tyler is a May Day "Guitar Hero"

2009-06-12T19:34:00.003-10:00

Check out Tyler's kindergarten class performance at Hokulani's May Day program (May 1, 2009), set to the song "La Bamba," especially the guitar solo part!

(Tyler is on far left)

The Tyler Cooking Show - Pumpkin Pie

2009-04-27T20:37:00.005-10:00

It's another edition of The Tyler Cooking Show! And on today's episode, we are making pumpkin pie!

First, the dry ingredients!

Oops! It appears we missed the salt! Oh well!

Now time for the eggs! Tyler gets a lesson in whisking!

Tyler tries to use a can opener but it's quite stingy.

And now the filling goes into the crust and into the oven!

Now for the final product!

It was quite delicious and apparently, salt-free!
Good job Ty and Grandma!

Lizzie's Adventures in San Fran

2009-04-14T17:10:00.016-10:00

Tyler's mom went to San Francisco for a few days and since Tyler couldn't make it on this trip, she took Lizzie, Ty's rubber lizard, instead.
We were inspired by this AT&T commercial...

So here is Lizzie's trip to San Francisco!

Lizzie stayed with Aunty Melissa who now lives in San Fran...

Resting on her bed with her teddy bear

Lizzie had fun exploring the culture of San Francisco!

Lizzie enjoyed a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf breakfast

Lizzie joined Aunty Melissa and Ty's mom at the Britney Spears concert in San Jose

Lizzie ran into a long-lost cousin at a DSW store! Oh my!

Lizzie took a bite out of a yummy meatloaf sandwich at 'WichCraft restaurant.

Lizzie checked out the heart sculptures throughout the city

Lizzie stopped in Union Square to rest between shopping

Lizzie was lucky enough to see Wicked!

Of course, Lizzie had to visit the Golden Gate Bridge!
What a beautiful, clear day!

Another stop was at Fisherman's Wharf, where Lizzie enjoyed hot clam chowder in a bread bowl

And Lizzie checked out the sea lions at Pier 39!

Lizzie got around the city by muni or bus. It was super easy to get from place to place.

Along the way, Lizzie saw the original "Craigslist" location.

And Lizzie took photos with Ty's mom's friends, Natalie and Patti, who live in the Bay Area.

Tyler's mom brought home for him a sour dough bread shaped as a turtle!

Which Ty ate up as he munched up the turtle's limbs!

Spring Break Part 2 with Mom

2009-04-14T16:33:00.006-10:00

Tyler spent the second half of Spring Break hanging with mom, who put him to work washing her car.
Of course, Tyler made sure to take extra precautions!

Better to be safe than sorry, I say!

Ty and mom had a picnic lunch at the pool.

They went to Pearlridge and rode the monorail.

They also went to Kuhio beach...

where the light rain didn't stop Ty from playing in the sand.

Ty and mom went to the Honolulu Zoo.

They visited the reptile house and the keiki zoo...

Where Ty met new friends, billy goats.

Can you see Ty's hand sticking out?

Ty and mom enjoyed a refreshing rainbow shave ice!

And Ty played with Kailoa at the beach fronting the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

It was a good Spring Break 2009!

Spring Break with Aunty and Grandma

2009-04-04T22:52:00.008-10:00

Tyler spent his first week of Spring Break with Grandma Judy and Aunty Melissa, who came home for her Spring Break.

On Monday March 23rd, it was Grandma's birthday. So Tyler and Aunty made a shopping list for Grandma's gift.

After they made their list and checked it twice,

it was time to celebrate at Shokudo...

where Tyler gave Grandma the card he made.

Tyler also went with Aunty and Grandma to the new Target in Salt Lake. Tyler likes riding the kiddie cart.

He also enjoyed riding the Waikele trolley...

And riding his bike at Kakaako Waterfront Park.

Mommy's Little Helper

2009-03-18T17:03:00.007-10:00

Tyler's mom had to work at the Honolulu Festival this past weekend, all weekend long, but the good thing was that Tyler got to hang out with mom! Tyler was such a big helper, passing out brochures and telling people where the bathroom is.

He even got to meet Doraemon in person! It was so cute, his eyes blink! And he's only slightly taller than Tyler!

Tyler was a little hesitant to see the Daijayama, or fire-spitting dragon, heads that were on display at the Hawaii Convention Center.

Tyler met some new friends, including Billy V of KINE who was the emcee, and Peyton, who he hung out with on Saturday.

Both Peyton and Tyler got fish from the Ennichi Corner. Peyton named his fish Oscar and Tyler named his fish Get.

Tyler also got a Thomas mask that Grandma Kam won for him at the cork gun game.

Tyler had a busy weekend at the Honolulu Festival, and mom was happy he could hang out with her while she worked!

Tyler and his BFF

2009-03-07T21:22:00.005-10:00

Tyler met his BFF (best friend forever) Colin at Kawaiaha‘o Preschool
and they've remained pals, even after Tyler left.

Maybe it's because they have the same interests...

Or maybe because they're both so silly!

But whatever it is, they like playing with each other,
even with Colin's sister Larisa!

Tyler working on cars suspension

2009-02-27T23:12:00.003-10:00

Tyler makes sure he wears his mechanic's gloves before he tackles automotive suspension work.

Finally... A Cute School Picture!

2009-02-05T21:52:00.003-10:00

Yay, Tyler's kindergarten school photo is SOOO CUTE!

This is actually his re-take since his original was,
in his mother's opinion, horrible!
It takes a bad photographer to make Tyler look terrible.
Plus, the original was taken right at the start of school,
so Tyler was probably nervous and uncomfortable.
I'm glad it came out okay and as Tyler said to me,
"Is that the one you wanted?" I said, "Yes!"

Exploring the Battleship Missouri

2009-02-01T15:52:00.009-10:00

Tyler and his family went to see the Battleship Missouri during a 10th Anniversary Celebration that offered free kama‘aina admission.

Ty and his cousin Haylie enjoyed posing near all the displays

Then it was time to board the Battleship Missouri!
Boy, there sure are a lot of stairs on the ship!

We explored the inside cabins. Reminded us sort of the Disney Cruise ship, but without the fancy stuff, of course.

Boy, their bunks were awfully small! Looks Tyler-size!

This is the historic spot where the WWII Surrender took place.

Small world, Tyler ran into his former classmate from Kawaiaha‘o Preschool, Lee.

We also ran into another Lee, Aunty Lee, who was working this event! Here's Aunty Lee talking to Uncle Dean and Tyler saying "hi" to "Churkey!"

Feeding the Chinese Lions

2009-01-31T20:55:00.005-10:00

Tyler and his family went to Ala Moana Center to have lunch and see the Chinese Lion dance.

Tyler and Haylie anticipated that it would be too loud

But their way would make it hard to feed the lions.
So Grandma Judy helped Ty out by covering his ears.

Tyler's Award for Being Kind!

2009-01-29T21:54:00.006-10:00

Tyler was awarded in his school's 2nd quarter assembly for being one of the kindest in his class.

It was a surprise for Tyler. We actually got a letter from his school in December but were asked not to tell him. So Ty didn't know we were going to be there. He didn't see us until he was up on the stage.

Also getting an award was his classmate Aaron!

We're so proud of you, Ty!

Kung Hee Fat Choy!

2009-01-26T10:31:00.010-10:00

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR!

Tyler joined his cousins Cierra, Hunter and Haylie for the Chinese New Year parade through Chinatown.

We scored front row seats with great views of all the lions, dragons and entertainment.

Tyler loved watching the Royal Hawaiian Band...

He even showed off his own marching skills!

Tyler enjoyed "feeding" the lions with money...

And gave a shout-out to the Hawaiian Ronald McDonald

He even petted a rabbit puppet... not sure what that was about since it's not Year of the Rabbit

Then we saw the Kams' Society... why aren't we part of it?

It was lots of fun and we're looking forward to what the Year of the Ox will bring!

Tyler on TV

2009-01-02T23:31:00.006-10:00

Tyler got a few minutes of fame on tv on New Year's Eve
when he was interviewed by KITV 4 News on a story
about the possible loss of cable channels.

Here's the story...

And here's Tyler watching himself.

He looked and sounded so cute!
(Don't mind the 3 seconds of his mother in the clip)
Reporter Catherine Cruz and Videographer Rex von Arnswaldt both
commented on how great Tyler was --
very well-behaved and good at watching television!
He gets a lot of practice!

Thanks to Aunty Jill for hooking Tyler up!

Going to the Hukilau!

2008-12-31T16:02:00.009-10:00

Tyler went with his family to Germaine's Luau,

thanks to Uncle Toby!

We enjoyed a VIP table with a prime view

although Tyler had to be lifted by Uncle Dean
to see the pig being taken out of the imu!

While Mommy and Aunty Lee enjoyed the pineapple centerpiece!

Tyler had fun with Aunty Lee and Uncle Dean

And got swept away by Dad and Mom at sunset!

Then Tyler and Aunty Melissa went onstage
to get their first hula lesson!
(He's the short one in the brown jacket)

After a few pointers, it was time for the real hula!

Great job!

Then it was time for the real show!

We especially enjoyed the amazing fire-knife dancer!

We had a great time!

2008-12-26T10:32:00.010-10:00

Tyler got an early start on opening his Christmas gifts

Daddy had to work the next morning
so Tyler opened most of them on Christmas Eve

He got a Star Wars Lego set from Mom and Dad!

Tyler also gave presents

including getting Aunty Melissa a watch for Christmas!

Grandma Judy helped Tyler open presents,
including one that he thought was a "girl's toy"
because of a picture of a girl on the front

But it turned out to be a Barking Alarm Clock

Tyler got a funny book from Aunty Emi

Tyler got cool Thomas puzzle and games from
Grandma Judy and Grandpa Randy

as well as an awesome WALL-E laptop computer

Tyler loves to learn about the human body
and got a cool new anatomy book from Aunty Melissa

Here's some of the other presents Tyler got,
thanks to his generous aunties and uncles!

Even Grandma Judy got a new knife!

Then on Christmas morning, Tyler came downstairs
to see if Santa came by for a visit.

Grandma helped Tyler open up his new telescope!

What a great Christmas! Thanks everyone! Love, Tyler

Merry Christmas from the Kam's!

2008-12-22T11:13:00.000-10:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

All Aboard the Candy Cane Train!

2008-12-19T18:13:00.003-10:00

Tyler rode Ala Moana's Candy Cane Train!

I think he was more interested in how the train runs!

Christmas at Hokulani

2008-12-19T15:53:00.005-10:00

Tyler and his class started celebrating the holidays
by making a gingerbread house with Mom & Dad!

Dad and Tyler worked together on the "building"

While Tyler enjoyed eating the "materials"

Resulting in a beautiful gingerbread house!

That's Tyler with his teacher, Ms. Sugahara!

Tyler performed with the kindergarten classes of
Hokulani Elementary during the Winter program.

He looked so cute with his new, blue kindergarten shirt,
"hand"-made antlers and red nose.

First, they performed "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer."

Then, they sang "Jingle Bells."

Then it was time to get ready to go home...

But not before a quick run on the jungle gym.

The Tyler Cooking Show - Lemon Bars

2008-12-16T20:02:00.003-10:00

Here's another installment of "The Tyler Cooking Show!" In today's episode, Tyler and his grandma make lemon bars!

After making the crust, Tyler prepares the lemon filling.

Here's the finished product... ta da!

Hawaiian 12 Days of Christmas

2008-12-07T09:19:00.003-10:00

Tyler sang the Hawaiian 12 Days of Christmas at Moiliili Community Center's 2008 Holiday Program.

He's the smallest one in the front row.

The Hawaiian 12 Days of Christmas goes:
Numbah One Day - Mynah bird in one papaya tree
Numbah 2 Day - Two coconuts
Numbah 3 Day - Three Dried Squid
Numbah 4 Day - Four Flower Lei
Numbah 5 Day - Five Big, Fat Pigs
Numbah 6 Day - Six Hula Lessons
Numbah 7 Day - Seven Shrimps a swimming
Numbah 8 Day - Eight Ukulele
Numbah 9 Day - Nine Pounds of Poi
Numbah 10 Day - Ten Cans of Soda (or Beer)
Numbah 11 Day - Eleven Missionaries
Numbah 12 Day - Twelve Televisions

Tyler also met with Santa Claus at Nordstrom!

The Tyler Cooking Show - Kona Coffee Mud Pie

2008-11-28T22:12:00.004-10:00

For the inaugural version of "The Tyler Cooking Show,"
Tyler demonstrates how to make a Kona Coffee Mud Pie!

And Tyler enjoyed it at Thanksgiving dinner! Good job!

Tyler the Bobblehead - Front View

2008-11-25T20:46:00.003-10:00

This is what Tyler looked like from the front!

2008-11-21T18:54:00.001-10:00

Tyler the Bobble Head.

Election Night - History Witnessed!

2008-11-04T21:10:00.003-10:00

Tyler had a front row seat to the historic election night victory of
Barack Obama as President-Elect.

He watched the coverage with Grandma, Grandpa and Mommy while Daddy worked.

His choice is clear - he even voted for Obama in his school's mock election.

And he watched the great speech by Obama...

This is truly a historic occasion...

And we're proud to be a witness to it.

Yes, we can!

Arrrr! - Halloween 2008

2008-11-01T19:37:00.006-10:00

Tyler got in the Halloween spirit by carving his pumpkin he got from the Aloun Farms Pumpkin Patch. He drew the design onto the pumpkin with a Sharpie and Mommy cut it out.

On Halloween night, Tyler went trick-or-treating at Ala Moana Center.

He donned his pirate costume again (recycling!).

Tyler met up with cousin Haylie who was Belle.

Along the route, Tyler ran into his BFF Colin who was the Golden Gate Bridge, made by Colin's grandpa.
The bridge was amazing and got a lot of positive comments!

Then cousins Hunter (policeman) and Cierra (Bat Girl) joined up
to complete the trick-or-treating.

Happy Halloween!

Pumpkins, ponies and an owl ... oh my!

2008-10-26T15:14:00.014-10:00

Tyler and his Mommy and Daddy went to pumpkin patch at Aloun Farms in Ewa on a rainy, muddy day.

Tyler met with Aunty Kim, Lindsy, Uncle Scott and Kylie
(and Aunty Gayle and Logan too)

It was very, very muddy but at least it didn't rain while we were there.
And the clouds made it nice and cool, not hot and dusty.

For us "townies," being on a farm was quite an eye-opening experience.
We were quite concerned with the cleanliness of the pumpkins,
so Aunty Kim and Uncle Scott made sure to wipe down the pumpkins
with baby wipes.

Kylie was first to pick hers!

Then, as we walked further, we saw what looked like an owl-shaped pumpkin.
Turns out, it was a real owl with an injured left wing!

We all got nice looking, clean pumpkins!

The kiddies visited the petting zoo.

Here is what the petting zoo looked like from Tyler's POV.

Then Lindsy and Tyler took a pony ride.
Tyler rode "Thunder," while Lindsy rode "Lightning."

And despite Aunty Gayle getting her car stuck in the mud
(sorry no pics of that)
and all the mud on our slippers and feet,

it was a great time!

Four eyes!

2008-10-25T16:26:00.005-10:00

Tyler went with Mommy to her eye doctor appointment.

And he loved playing with all the samples of eye glasses in the waiting room!

This is the "Sally Jesse Raphael" look!

This is the "Urkel" look!

This is the "Hollywood Glamour" big sunglesses look!

This is the look Mommy likes... for herself... but Tyler looks cute too!

Hopefully, Tyler will keep his 20/20 vision and won't need real glasses!

But if he does, he'll be really, really cute!

Go Warriors!

2008-10-15T21:59:00.005-10:00

Tyler has been getting more interested in football this season.
He doesn't watch his iPod like he used to.
And he likes yelling phrases that he hears his neighbors shout,
like "Deeeefense!"

His most favorite part was getting newspaper scraps that were folded
into paper airplanes and hats.
Plus, he likes to eat Dippin' Dots and saimin!

Hopefully this will turn out to be a good season!

Dolphin Discovery at Sea Life Park

2008-10-11T14:46:00.003-10:00

Tyler spent his Fall Break at Sea Life Park with a special Kama‘aina Kids program. On the last day, parents were invited to watch, so Grandpa Randy, Grandma Judy and Dad went (Mom had to work).

The dolphin's name is Buster and Tyler got to touch and feed Buster.

Tyler is the bouncy one in green.

Then after, Mom met with them at Outback Steakhouse in Hawaii Kai for dinner.

Tyler's Tool Time

2008-10-07T19:53:00.003-10:00

Tyler went to his first kid's workshop at Iwilei Home Depot
this past Saturday.

He got a cool, little Home Depot apron that he got to keep.

Tyler and dad tackled the project together.

And they built a whistle fire engine!
Good job!

Wedding fun

2008-09-17T20:54:00.006-10:00

Here are some pictures from Aunty Fitha and Uncle Aaron's wedding,
where Mommy was a bridesmaid and Tyler was a ringbearer,
his first time as part of a wedding!

Right before the wedding, Tyler and Mommy shared a quiet moment.

Tyler and Mommy make their way down the sandy aisle,
towards the beach of Makaha.

At the end of the evening, Mommy gave Tyler a dip while dancing!

These amazing photos are from Focal Point Images.

The Broccoli Wedding Singer

2008-09-15T19:52:00.001-10:00

Tyler did a limited edition performance at a wedding last Saturday...
with a broccoli!

It was an acoustic broccoli too!

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY TYLER!

2008-09-14T21:54:00.008-10:00

Tyler turned the big 5 on Sunday, September 14th!

We celebrated with a Wall-E themed party with family!

It was a joint birthday with his cousin Hunter who turns 4 on Sept. 18.

Everyone (except Hunter) enjoyed the Wall-E masks!

Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes!

Hola, Cabo San Lucas!

2008-09-01T10:35:00.010-10:00

Our first shore excursion was a harbor cruise and city tour of Cabo San Lucas.

Our ship couldn't dock in the harbor so we had to catch a tender to go to shore.

This is the Disney Magic as we left. Fortunately we didn't get sick on the tender boat.

We first took the harbor cruise.

We all admired the beauty of the amazing rock formations!

Unfortunately, Haylie didn't feel too well.

Here's a view of our ship on the right and the other cruise ship that was stalking us on the left.

More of the amazing rock formations.

Then we boarded a bus that took us to a seaside restaurant for a quick break.
Tyler admired the view.

There were a couple of signs of familiarity along the way...

And then we headed back to our ship.

It was a nice, although tourist-y, view of Cabo San Lucas. The weather is like Hawaii but much more humid. And the landscape is more brown while Hawaii is more green.
I'd recommend this shore excursion for those with young children.

Ono Grinds on Disney Cruise

2008-08-30T23:07:00.005-10:00

One of the best things about the Disney Cruise was the food! We ate great meals at spectacular restaurants!

At Lumiere's, we dined on scallops and duck.

This was the cake brought out to celebrate Grandma Kam's belated birthday and Aunty Susie and Uncle Rance's wedding anniversary.

Too bad Tyler missed our first night dining at Lumiere's.

He was so tired from all the excitement he fell asleep at the table!

Touches of Mickey were seen everywhere, even in the ketchup!

At Animator's Palate, we dined on beef and seafood dishes.

And then enjoyed yummy desserts!

Thanks to our dining crew, Cloverly of Jamaica and Paul of South Africa, for the wonderful experiences onboard the Disney Magic!

Disney Cruise Day 1 - Welcome onboard Disney Magic!

2008-08-24T12:38:00.007-10:00

Tyler's journey to the Disney cruise vacation began at Honolulu Airport...

where Tyler and his cousin Haylie anxiously awaited to board the Delta flight to Los Angeles.

This is the view of the Disney Magic from the shuttle at Port of Los Angeles.

Minnie Mouse greeted us at Port of Los Angeles before we embarked.

Tyler was not so sure of Minnie... running away in the middle of posing for pictures!

We received a warm welcome as we boarded the Disney Magic!

Look at the amazing, grand atrium!

Tyler poses by one of two smoke stacks onboard the Disney Magic. This smoke stack or funnel isn't real. It's actually the home to the teen club! The other funnel is real.

Tyler and Daddy view Port of Los Angeles from front of ship.

This is what our inside stateroom looked like. Very tiny!

Tyler dons his life vest for the mandatory evacuation drill.

Memories of Mickey and Friends!

2008-08-22T08:57:00.015-10:00

Tyler and his family went on a Disney cruise to the Mexican Riviera!

L to R: Grandma Kam, Daddy, Tyler, Minnie Mouse, Mommy, Cousin Haylie, Aunty Susie and Uncle Rance

Tyler and Haylie were greeted by Minnie at the Port of Los Angeles prior to embarkment

Enjoy the pictures taken onboard the Disney Cruise!

Tyler enjoyed Pirate Night!

Tyler Sees Sea Life

2008-08-05T09:16:00.007-10:00

Tyler and Grandpa Randy went to Sea Life Park in East Oahu

They enjoyed the dolphin show, away from the splash zone

Tyler was impressed by the puffer fish

And he especially liked the turtles!

2nd Day of School Jitters

2008-08-04T09:47:00.003-10:00

Tyler returned to school today with the intention of "not being shy today"...

But once there, he got butterflies again...

Hang in there Ty!

Flashback Friday - 1st Trip to Disneyland 2005

2008-08-01T15:09:00.007-10:00

As our family gets ready to go to Disneyland again and on the Disney Cruise, here's a look back at Tyler's first time at Disneyland in 2005, right after his 2nd birthday.

This is what Tyler looked like through most of Disneyland. No smile, nothing. He still has that look when he's not sure of something.

First ride was on Dumbo!
Thanks to Aunty Melissa who took the picture from the Dumbo in front of us!

The family standing in line. For a September, it was quite hot, as I recall.

The tea cup ride was the only ride where Tyler smiled! I think it was because of the motion. He seems to like things that go fast!

It was the park's 50th anniversary so we got Golden ears!

Can't wait for our trip! Keep checking the blog for updates!

1st Day of School Jitters

2008-07-30T12:59:00.003-10:00

Tyler started Pre-K today at Hokulani Elementary School...

He worked out his jitters by acting silly before class opened.

But once inside, he was shy. He didn't want Mommy to leave ... and Mommy didn't want to leave. But he survived... and so did Mommy!

Good job Tyler!

Proof That Anyone Can Paddle Board

2008-07-29T11:01:00.001-10:00

I've always wanted to try stand-up paddle boarding. It looks cool... when other people do it. So at Ala Moana beach, there was a company doing demos and I tried it.
(Please do not be alarmed by giant red whale on board... that's just me!)

My graceful dismount!

Thank God for the instructor who helped steer me in!

I'd do it again but I need a lot of practice!

Flashback Friday - Tyler's Clubhouse

2008-07-25T14:23:00.001-10:00

In the style of MTV Cribs, Tyler gives a tour of his "clubhouse," made under Grandma Judy's dining room table.

It's not quite a flashback but it's still fun to watch!

Tyler and Colin's Playdate

2008-07-20T13:48:00.006-10:00

Tyler and his BFF Colin have fun as Colin comes over for a playdate.

It was all about Legos, trains and tools!

Thanks Colin for coming by!

Tyler's First Carwash

2008-07-19T18:29:00.004-10:00

Tyler enjoyed his first cruise through a carwash. At first he was apprehensive and pretended to be sleeping but he was curious and now likes carwashes!

Now we just have to teach Tyler how to wash the car himself and we're in business!

Happy Birthday Grandma Kam

2008-07-19T17:24:00.004-10:00

Tyler joined his family in celebrating Grandma Kam's birthday at Compadres on Friday night.

In Compadres fashion, the servers put a big sombrero on Grandma and sang her a birthday song. Then the kids got a chance to try on the sombrero which was really, really big on them!

Flashback Friday - Tyler's 2nd Year

2008-07-18T11:28:00.002-10:00

It's fun to see how Tyler has grown! Enjoy!

Tyler the Mechanic

2008-07-14T12:49:00.007-10:00

Looks like Tyler is actually learning something from all those trips to the Discovery Center. Starts off practicing on the fake car, then applying his skills to the real car. I sure hope he knows what he is doing.

Tyler knows you need to use the right tools for each job.

Tyler always loved to play with wheels.

Tyler making sure the license plate is straight.

Getting into Preschool - Honolulu Advertiser

2008-07-13T08:45:00.002-10:00

Tyler's mommy is quoted in Sunday's Honolulu Advertiser story on getting into preschools.

Here's an excerpt:

What parents say

'Iolani's Monaco knows the private-school application process can be stressful for parents. She recalls the new mother who called when her baby was 6 months old and wanted to know about kindergarten admissions.

Author Pirl remembers a woman coming up to her at a book signing and asking which preschool she should send her child to. Pirl pressed for more details about the child: Boy? Girl? Sports? Hobbies?

The woman, thoroughly surprised, told Pirl that she wasn't a mother, nor even married, but thought she ought to get an early start in sorting out her options.

Noreen Kam of Mo'ili'ili, an account supervisor at public relations firm McNeil Wilson, has a friend who's already working to get a 6-week-old baby onto the waiting lists of preschools. But Kam waited to get started until her son, Tyler, was the ripe old age of 2.

"It's way crazy here," she said. "Especially because when we started looking, we'd hear, 'Oh there's a wait list of a year or so.' Friends pass it on to other friends, and it gets the pregnant moms worried. ... It's one more thing you have to think of."

Kam's heard the hype that if they don't get into this preschool or that, "they'll never get into Punahou or whatever, and Harvard down the line."

She applied Tyler, now 4, to seven preschools, but specifically chose ones that didn't require tests: "I didn't want Tyler to have that pressure — or us as parents."

As a wee li'l tot, Tyler was cared for by his grandfather; Kam wanted him to be comfortable in a social environment.

"It wasn't about preparing him for a curriculum of higher education," she said. "It was about getting him to play with other kids."

Now, he's at Kawaiaha'o's summer preschool before he starts kindergarten at the highly rated Hokulani Elementary, a public school, in the fall. (Because of where his birthday falls, he's of age to start public school kindergarten, but not within the deadlines for private school kindergarten.)

Next year, Kam's hoping he'll get admitted into 'Iolani or Hawaii Baptist Academy — where he would again attend kindergarten — but she's fine if he stays at Hokulani.

"Much as we love Kawaiaha'o, it's nice to save some money," she said.

Flashback Friday - Tyler's 1st Year

2008-07-11T13:27:00.000-10:00

Enjoy another look back at Tyler as a baby!

The Next Minnesota Fatts? Well, Maybe Minnesota Skinny

2008-07-08T20:52:00.008-10:00

I think Tyler thinks the pool stick is a spear

Tyler with a Blackcreek Cue

Tyler with a 1990 Southwest Cue

Tyler with an Omega/DPK Cue

Flashback Friday - Tyler's First Birthday

2008-07-04T16:27:00.004-10:00

Here's a look back at Tyler's first birthday in 2004.

Down and Dirty in the Lo‘i

2008-07-01T08:21:00.003-10:00

Tyler and his summer fun class at Kawaiaha‘o Church School visited the UH Hawaiian Studies lo‘i (taro patch) last week.

Thanks to Colin's dad for the pictures and for watching the boys!

Fast and Flavor-ous!!!

2008-06-29T15:04:00.009-10:00

It was quite a busy weekend for Tyler. It started Friday night with dinner at Flavors of Honolulu with Mommy and Grandma Kam. But Tyler wasn't interested in the food, he wanted to ride the kiddie rides!

Tyler's favorite was the Extreme Slide. He went on it 7 times!
Lucky for him, he was the only kid on the slide at the time!

There was even a cook-off between Prosecutor Peter Carlisle and "Dog" The Bounty Hunter. We don't know who won...

...But it drew quite a crowd.

Tyler Gets Cultural at PCC

2008-06-29T14:26:00.009-10:00

Tyler and family went to Polynesian Cultural Center for free Kama‘aina Day, thanks to an excellent job in promoting it by Aunty Lee.

Tyler watched Daddy learn to throw a spear at the "Tonga" village.. when he wasn't acting silly.

Then they went to the "Hawaii" village to see the new Hale Wa‘a... too bad the wa‘a wasn't there.

Tyler took control of the video camera for this performance!

Then, they listened to the awesome Uncle Willie K who was the featured performer! Tyler loved his song!

Unfortunately, Tyler's energetic and enthusiastic dancing resulted in the dropping of his hot dog after the video camera was turned off.

Go visit the Polynesian Cultural Center for great exhibits, entertainment and fun for the whole family, whether you're local or visiting!
(No shameless plug here!)

Flashback Friday - Introducing Tyler

2008-06-27T21:49:00.002-10:00

This flashback goes wayyyy back... back to Tyler's first year! It's amazing to think he was so tiny and fun to watch how much he's grown! It was almost 5 years ago but sometimes seems like yesterday! Enjoy!

Orange You Glad You Read This!

2008-06-26T07:50:00.005-10:00

Tyler is a comedian! If he becomes the next Jim Carrey or Will Ferrell, you'll know it started when he was very young. He's constantly telling jokes -- most of which only make sense to him, such as "What happens when Kawaiaha‘o Church School ate a bus stop? HAHAHAHA!" (Don't worry, we didn't get it either). But he loves to make people laugh!

So Grandma Judy bought Tyler a Knock-Knock joke book and he laughs at every joke, even though he probably doesn't really get the irony.

The Next Lance Armstrong, Perhaps?

2008-06-24T15:43:00.003-10:00

Tyler goes 3-wheeling at Grandma Judy and Grandpa Randy's house with his new helmet and horn!

BEEP BEEP!

Surprise!

2008-06-22T21:19:00.007-10:00

Grandpa Randy had a surprise birthday party in honor of his kanreki, or 60th birthday!

To surprise him, Grandma Judy told Grandpa Randy that we were having a wedding shower for Mark and Pii. Then Mommy sent out evites to family and friends. While guests arrived and set up the party, family friends Chris and Marty Gomez in Fresno, CA called Grandpa Randy at home to keep him away from the rec center. 45 minutes later, Grandpa Randy went up to check on the "shower," only to find it was a birthday party for him!

Enjoy pictures of the party!

Grandma Judy, Grandpa Randy, Mommy and Tyler

Grandpa Randy and Tyler (with submarine)

Grandma Kam presents Grandpa Randy with a certificate from Mayor Hannemann

The Kusaka's including new baby Isabella

Tyler kicks back with Uncle Toby

Aunty Susie and Haylie

Grandpa Randy and his friends

Flashback Friday - May Day 2008

2008-06-19T16:07:00.008-10:00

Tyler's class at Kawaiahao Church Preschool did an African-themed May Day program this year.

Thanks to Grandma Judy for the great photos and video! As you can see, Tyler is too busy waving "hi" to Grandma Judy, Grandma Kam, Aunty Susie and Haylie in the audience.

Then Tyler celebrated with Haylie afterwards!

Swim Lessons

2008-06-17T20:56:00.019-10:00

Tyler Takes A Dip at Ala Moana Beach with the Red Cross Swim Lessons!

Tyler and Daddy had fun!

Mommy got in on the action too!

Tyler seems to be enjoying himself!

Let's Go See Legos!

2008-06-15T20:42:00.005-10:00

Tyler spent Father's Day with Daddy seeing the new Lego exhibit at Pearlridge.

Ty's Mom's Pick of the Day

2008-06-13T13:03:00.004-10:00

File this under "Totally Unrelated to Tyler" but I saw this and had to post it! This is from Amazon.com - it's the iCarta iPod Toilet Paper Holder!It is listed for $59.89 brand new or you can get a refurbished one for $39.99!
The listing claims you will receive:

Full, rich sound
Easy operation and compact design
Hours of enjoyment

I don't know about you but I don't see myself spending hours in the bathroom! It's only worth it if it refills the toilet paper when the role is empty!

Eating bad... but soooo good!

2008-06-12T15:09:00.000-10:00

So there's a list of the worst foods in America and I have to admit, most of them, if not all, look yummy! And I'm guilty of eating a few, including...The Pork Lo Mein from PF Chang's, named the "Worst Chinese Entree,"

and...

The Macaroni 'N Cheese from Macaroni Grill, named the "Worst Kids' Meal,"
one of Tyler's favorites!

Mmmm...

This looks like a national survey so no loco moco or anything deep fried like chicken katsu. And nothing containing spam.

Say cheeeeeeese!

2008-06-11T08:07:00.004-10:00

Tyler's mom got a new digital camera and tested it out on her favorite subject, Tyler!Caught red-handed!

Innocent look!

Thinking of his next pose...

Praying!

Watch the silly boy in action!

More than just blushing

2008-06-06T11:43:00.002-10:00

Tyler had a bout with Fifth's Disease, also known as Parvovirus. Sounds bad but is pretty much just like a cold. The tell-tale sign is red cheeks, like someone slapped him or he was in really, really freezing temperatures. He was not itchy nor did he have the rash anywhere else. We kept him home Wednesday from his first day of summer fun but the doctor said he was okay to go back to school, so he went on Thursday. Now the red cheeks are gone and Tyler's back to good!

Tyler's One-Man Show

2008-06-01T21:32:00.003-10:00

Ladies and gentlemen... For one night only! Tyler Kam and his one-man show!

Tyler raps...

...and he sings and dances! Can you name the song?

Graduation Day

2008-05-31T21:49:00.027-10:00

Tyler graduated from Kawaiaha‘o Church School, his preschool for the past two years.

Tyler is silly for the camera!

Aunty Aulani talks about each graduate. She describes Ty as lovable and talks about how much he loves to give hugs!

Tyler loves to be silly!

Tyler hams it up for Mommy's camera

Tyler and his friends...

Tyler and Christopher

Tyler strikes his pose with Jasmine

Tyler with Colin and Jasmine

Tyler and Christian

Tyler and Damian

Tyler with Jasmine and Aunty Aulani

Tyler with Aunty Jayneen who LOVES Ty!

Flashback Friday - Howlin' Cousins

2008-05-30T14:46:00.001-10:00

This is from 2007's Higa Family Reunion in Wailuku. Tyler and his cousin Haylie decided to howl. Enjoy!

Tyler & Colin's Playdate

2008-05-27T10:52:00.003-10:00

Tyler had fun at his friend Colin's house on Saturday. He played with Colin and his sister Larisa for a couple of hours. Colin has a lot of toys and the boys made such a mess! Tyler loved his construction trucks and remote control trains. Thanks to Colin's mom and dad for hosting Tyler!

Flashback Friday -- Tyler's class singing Jingle Bells 2007

2008-05-23T23:08:00.001-10:00

Tyler's in green...Such a ham, wonder where he gets it from???

A look at Tyler's pics

2008-05-21T14:01:00.003-10:00

Enjoy this slideshow!

Tyler Walks (or Rides) for Charity

2008-05-21T13:10:00.005-10:00

Tyler and his mom walked in the Visitor Industry Charity Walk this past Saturday. Well, Tyler's mom walked... Tyler rode! It started at 7am and we finished after 11am! FOUR HOURS in the muggy, voggy weather!

Thanks goodness for the good people at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa who had SHAVED ICE and watermelon! It was like striking gold!

Thank you to Aunty Erin, mom's co-worker, for being our walking companion! And thanks to Uncle Nate, mom's other co-worker and pseudo-relative, for the pics!

Downside - Tyler got a fever that night. Must've been all the sun that overheated him! But he's fine now!